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STEM Instructions

Webpage Overview

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Welcome to the Instructions section for the GFG Foundation STEM challenge where you are tasked with building your own Bluetooth speaker from a recycled aluminium can. Here, we will teach you everything you need to know about assembling and using your Bluetooth speaker.

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The GFG Foundation Bluetooth speaker kit is a fun introduction to the world of coding, robotics, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering Arts and Maths).

As part of the challenge, you will learn about the basics of C++ coding language and build simple electrical circuits using the parts provided. You will then use simple strips of C++ code to programme a microcontroller and smartphone app to let you control the sequences and colours of the built-in LED lights.

​What you get as part of this course via your code kit:

  • Recycled aluminium can speaker casing

  • Microcontroller board

  • Bluetooth Receiver

  • Jumper cables

  • LED strip

 

​Target Audience

  • Anyone with an interest in coding, electronics and engineering.

  • People with no coding or electronics experience but want to start somewhere, in a fun way

  • Children over 12 (younger if supervised by an adult)
     

Outcomes:

  • Engagement with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics)   

  • Experience in basic programming using the Arduino IDE

  • Ability to understand and create rudimentary C++ code

  • An understanding of the key principles involved in programming microcontrollers

  • Inspiration to learn about other coding and electronics projects

  • Better awareness of how STEM subjects are used in our everyday lives and can help future careers

  • A knowledge of how items can be repurposed instead of being sent to landfill

Download the PDF version of assembly instructions and code here: 

Safety

Information

Overview:

This section shows you what software you need to code your Bluetooth speaker, and how to download it onto your computer. 

​Instructions on:

  • How to download and install the software

  • How to plug in your board and prepare a sketch

  • What the information in the sketch means

What you will need:

  • PC/laptop

  • Internet connection

  • Arduino Micro-controller

  • USB Type B cable

Software

Building your Speaker

Overview:

 

This section will show you how to write the code you need to make your speaker work.

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What you will need:

  • PC/ laptop

  • Internet connection (if using an online Arduino editor)

  • Micro-controller

  • USB lead

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You can download fully written code at the top of this webpage. The workbook (that can also be downloaded at the top of this webpage) will guide your through the code.

What's Next?

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  1. Open your speaker code

  2. Choose your Arduino device by Choosing Tools -> Port: -> Arduino/Genuino Uno (Available Device):














     

  3. Verify if the code is correct without errors using the Tick icon on the top left corner of the software:




     

  4. Upload your code by clicking on the right-pointing arrow on the left top corner of the software:​

Arduino, coding
Arduino, coding

Coding the Speaker

Arduino, coding

If you decide to download the libraries from this website rather than from Arduino Software please do the following:

  • Open Document folder

  • Arduino Folder

  • Unzip the libraries folder into the Arduino folder

  • Once unzipped check if there is a "libraries" folder within the "libraries" folder

    • If so, move the inner "libraries" folder into Arduino Folder​

01.

"How do I know my Bluetooth module is connected"

When you look at the HM-10 Bluetooth module there is a red LED. When disconnected the LED will be blinking. However when the module is connected the LED light will be constantly on.

03.

Error message "No such file or directory"

Delete and re-install libraries

  • DHT Sensory Library

  • SoftwareSerial

  • Wire

  • Adafruit_GFX

  • Adafruit_SSD1306
     

OR

Download the zipped folder from the top of this web page. After downloading, move the unzipped folder into Documents -> Arduino.

05.

Arduino software error "Problem uploading to board."

Before pressing the "upload" button, you need to choose your port.

Go into Tools -> Port -> Choose your Arduino Uno device

02.

"Arduino is not working"

To see if Arduino is working correctly connect it to your PC/ Laptop using a blue USB type B cable. If the Arduino board turn on it means it's working.

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When you connect it to the power bank, and the Arduino is not working- recharge your power bank.

04.

The Bluetooth is connecting the app, but I cannot control the house.

Check the wiring of your circuit. TXD and RXD might be mixed up.

TXD -> Pin 8

RXD -> Pin 9

FAQ

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